Robert Kratky retires: The Ö3 star is fighting for his health!

Robert Kratky retires: The Ö3 star is fighting for his health!

On August 15, 2025, popular radio host Robert Kratky announced that he was ending his career due to health reasons. This decision, which he made in the interests of his mental health, was confirmed by Ö3 broadcaster boss Michael Pauser. Kratky, who has worked at hit radio Ö3 since 1991, would like to temporarily withdraw from the public eye and take a break from the stress that his long career brought with it.

Kratky was not only one of the most famous presenters in Austria, but also the longest-serving presenter of the Ö3-Wecker, the most listened to radio show in the country. Since 1991 he initially worked as a director and live reporter before becoming chief producer of the Ö3 Wecker in 1996. From 2004 he took on the role of main presenter. During his time at Ö3 he invented popular radio comedies such as “Vignettenman”, “Grandma Raithofer & Grandpa Kratky” and the “Ö3-Weckercombo”.

A look at the effects of health

Kratky's withdrawal is a stark example of society's current focus on mental and physical health. At a time when the aging of society requires solutions in the areas of work ability and social participation, the challenges for many people are considerable. According to reports from HCM Magazine, the direct costs of illness in Germany in 2023 were already 491.6 billion euros, underscoring the urgency of taking early measures to promote health in old age.

Innovations such as exoskeletons show how advanced technology can be used in therapy to improve quality of life. An innovation forum that took place in the renowned Arosa Hotel on Sylt discussed prevention and the topic of longevity. Such events are important for bringing together experts in medicine, architecture and technology to develop solutions to healthcare challenges.

Importance of health in professional life

Robert Kratky's decision to retire due to health reasons is not only a personal matter, but also sheds light on the increasing importance of health care in working life. Today's workforce is often under immense pressure, highlighting the need to better manage stressful situations and their impact on health. Initiatives in the Bundestag that aim to make the nursing profession more attractive and enable more personal responsibility for nursing staff are part of this development.

At a time when many people are grappling with similar challenges, Robert Kratky's retirement remains an example of how important it is to prioritize your own health. Society is required to find solutions to reduce the stresses of life and promote a healthy lifestyle. As Kratky heads into retirement, his contribution to Austrian radio culture will remain unforgotten.